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Which Asian-based Socceroos would you pick?

If you were Holger Osieck, which Asian-based Qantas Socceroos would you select to take on Saudi Arabia on February 29?

If you were Holger Osieck, which Asian-based Qantas Socceroos would you select to take on Saudi Arabia on February 29?

So far this week, we-ve asked for your opinions on the Qantas Socceroos selection process and which of the European-based players head coach Holger Osieck should select for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifier at Melbourne-s AAMI Park later this month.

Today we look to Asia. With many Australian-s plying their trades in the leagues of the region outside the Hyundai A-League, there are plenty of potential players for Holger to pick.

There are plenty of advantages and disadvantages for selecting players from this region to consider when making the selection.

As a positive, it is certainly a shorter flight back to Melbourne to take on the Saudis compared to their European colleagues. The other main benefit is that these players are more attuned to the Asian style of play, especially the UAE-based players, and also referees from the Asian region.

As a negative, for the east Asian players in the J-League (Japan), K-League (Korea Republic) and Chinese Super League (China PR), the season is just about to start and to leave for an international fixture will not only interrupt their club pre-season preparations it carries the risk of them not being in their starting squads for the season openers which may have ramifications for the June matches.

You may want to ask yourself the question “is a Hyundai A-League player in the middle of a season a better choice than an Asian-based player in their pre-season?”.

Of course, for many Australian players in Asia this is a good chance to stake their claim for a regular spot in the green and gold squad and making themselves available - as well as capable - is an opportunity many players won-t want to miss.

Tell us what you think - take a look at our Aussies Abroad map and say who you think Holger should bring back.